The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman Poem Analysis Essay

The poem, The Hill We Climb, by Amanda Gorman stresses the need for unity in this divided and uncertain time in our country. Before this speech, a palpable feeling of deep-rooted anger and hatred had taken hold of some Americans, causing a devastating mob attack of the Capitol building on January 6, 2021. This life-altering event occurred during a bittersweet time of transition, while the world awaited the certification of the presidential candidate, Joseph R. Biden. 

Through Gorman's poem, she illustrates how our country has some strength and potential to reach the full state of unity. "We've seen a force that would shatter our nation rather than share it. Would destroy our country if it meant delaying democracy. And this effort very nearly succeeded. But while democracy can be periodically delayed, it can never be permanently defeated." (Goodman 28-39). This excerpt shows that there is still hope. We might think that we've lost all of the peace and that we are too divided, but our democracy can persevere. These lines are also referencing the attack on the capital, as I stated before. I enjoyed this poem and had the privilege to watch it during the Inauguration. I also enjoyed this poem because it is written by someone that looks like me; Amanda Gorman represents the possibilities I didn't know existed. I watched in awe as she recited her powerful message on this already historical day. 

Overall, this poem gave me hope for a better country and opportunities now made available to me as we entered a new presidency and embarked on another challenging year.